THE wait is finally over.

Winners of the Hampshire Hero Awards 2021 were announced at a star-studded ceremony.

The event was hosted by Simon Weston CBE, a veteran of the British Army who is known for his charity work and recovery from severe burn injuries suffered during the Falklands War.

He said: "How do you judge awards like this? Well let me start by giving my own personal thanks to all those who have been nominated today for the sacrifices you have made.

"We know that only some of you will be mentioned but let me reassure you that we recognize the qualities you have and all the work you have done over these past many months. For this we salute you.

"I feel really honoured to be asked to present these awards. For me the heroes in life are the ordinary people who step up in the moment."

Simon was joined by three TV celebrities: antiques expert Kate Bliss, Dr Hilary Jones and Strictly Come Dancing Judge Craig Revel Horwood.

The winners are:

Medical Heroes Category – sponsored by Paris Smith Healthcare Team Award:

  • Hestia Care -Berehill House

Individual Healthcare Professional Award:

  • Megan Rayner, Maternity Unit Princess Anne Hospital 

Medical Support Award:

  • Jennifer Bryant, Sentinel Healthcare

Emergency Heroes Category – sponsored by University of Winchester 999 Heroes Award:

  • Captain Karl Williams, Army Boscombe Down

In the Moment Award:

  • Tim Brennan, Horton Heath, and Martin Hancill, Dorset

The Young Hero Award:

  • Nancy Bastin, Hampshire Cub Scouts

Everyday Hero Category – sponsored by Southern Water

Best Key Worker Award:

  • Andrew Connolly, Spar Store

Unsung Heroes:

  • Lisa Carter, Totton

Best Fundraiser:

  • Jessica Giles, Winchester

Thank you to everyone who voted, and congratulations to the winners.